State explains Island Trees lead removal options

State and health officials were at Island Trees High School Thursday to answer questions on how they plan to combat the school's lead problem.

The school's basement, which was once a rifle range, has tested positive for high levels of lead. State officials say they have three options - encapsulation, removal or doing nothing.

School district consultants have recommended encapsulation, which entails covering affected areas with concrete structures and geomembranes. It's considered a quicker way to handle the problem, but many feel removal would be safest.

The issue has been one of contention among residents. Besides health issues, some worry the lead levels could affect property value.